Ready for battle with an eye on the sky

Weather conditions are going to play a major part in this series. Another fact is that one team is going to have to play very badly, or the other very well, to force a result. South Africa's strength has been their relentless pace bowling, while India's has been their run-hungry batting, and you have the perfect recipe for turgid cricket. Kallis's role crucial. Barrel-chested and stout legged, Kallis has always had the ability to swing the ball conventionally.

Kumble’s challenge

For India, Kumble's challenge will be rotating bowlers and keeping them fresh, using them optimally, while plugging away from one end himself. If Wasim Jaffer's form was a concern he couldn't find a better place to rehabilitate himself in this series.